Bowmer + Kirkland (B+K) has successfully secured the £274 million main contract aimed at the extensive redevelopment of the Castle Leazes student accommodation in Newcastle. This significant project is a collaboration between B+K, Unite Students, and Newcastle University, aimed at revitalising a crucial part of the student accommodation landscape.
Planning Approval Secured
Recent news indicates that Gateway 2 approval has been granted by the Building Safety Regulator, setting the stage for the replacement of the outdated 1960s complex. The redevelopment will feature a total of 2,009 new student rooms distributed across a series of two to nine-storey blocks. This initiative not only addresses the growing demand for high-quality student accommodation but also aligns with the ongoing trends within the UK PBSA market, which continues to evolve in response to student needs.
Project Phases and Timeline
The Castle Leazes project is set to be executed in two distinct phases. The first phase will deliver 788 beds, anticipated to be ready for the 2028/29 academic year, with the remaining rooms scheduled for completion in time for the 2029/30 academic intake. This phased approach allows for a structured development timeline, ensuring that the new accommodation meets the increasing demand from students in the region.
Social Value and Community Impact
Since commencing demolition and enabling works in June 2024, B+K has already generated an impressive £9.6 million in social value. This is achieved through local employment opportunities, supply chain spending, community initiatives, and various training opportunities that benefit the surrounding area. Ed Besford, the North East and Scotland regional director, remarked, “Castle Leazes is a landmark redevelopment project and we are delighted to be supporting our long-standing clients Unite Students and Newcastle University. Our team worked hard to support the Gateway 2 process and we are pleased to have been given the green light, marking our third approval from the regulator in six months.”
Expanding PBSA Developments
In a related development, B+K’s Western team has recently attained Gateway 2 approval for the 22-storey Temple Reach PBSA development, which will be delivered for developer Cubex. This ambitious project will offer 531 student rooms along with 4,300 sq ft of workspace, situated on a former industrial site near the River Avon. This development not only links the University of Bristol’s Enterprise Campus with the waterfront but also reflects the broader trend of integrating educational facilities within urban environments.
The Castle Leazes redevelopment exemplifies the ongoing commitment to improving student accommodation in the UK, reinforcing B+K’s position as a key player in the PBSA sector. As the need for high-quality, purpose-built student accommodation continues to rise, projects like these are vital for both developers and investors looking to maximise their portfolios in this thriving market.